Suet balls, also known as suet cakes or suet logs, are a popular high-fat bird feed used to attract woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, and other backyard birds during winter months. But how long do these suet treats actually last before going rancid? Here’s a look at how long suet balls last, tips for extending their lifespan, and signs that it’s time to toss them out.
How Long Do Suet Balls Last Unopened?
An unopened package of suet balls will typically last about 2 years past the printed expiration date if stored properly. The key is keeping them somewhere cool, dry, and free from pests like insects or rodents that could nibble through the packaging. An unopened bag kept in a pantry, basement, or garage will usually maintain quality and freshness for around 2 years past the date stamped on the bag. After this time, the fat can start to break down and go rancid despite being sealed.
How Long Do Suet Balls Last Once Opened?
Once opened, the lifespan of suet balls becomes much shorter. Most suet cakes will only last around 1-2 weeks after being opened before starting to go bad. Exactly how long depends on a few variables:
- Storage conditions – Suet will last longer if kept somewhere cool and dry vs. warm and humid.
- Time of year – Suet tends to break down faster in summer’s heat.
- Exposure to air – Any suet exposed to air will go bad quicker than balls kept tightly sealed.
- Bird activity – Active feeding speeds spoilage as birds deliver bacteria from beaks.
As a general guideline, expect suet balls to last:
- 1-2 weeks during warmer weather
- 2-3 weeks during cooler weather
Properly storing opened suet in the fridge allows it to last a bit longer. But take note that suet will become too firm to use once chilled and needs time to resoften at room temperature before birds can feed.
How to Make Suet Balls Last Longer
You can extend the lifespan of suet balls and get the most from your purchase by following these tips:
- Buy an appropriate amount – Don’t stock up on more suet than you’ll use in a month.
- Keep unused suet sealed in a cool, dark place like a basement or pantry.
- Only open what you’ll use within a week or two.
- Between feedings, store opened suet in the fridge or freezer inside a plastic bag or airtight container.
- Allow refrigerated suet to sit out and soften for several hours before rehanging.
- Avoid leaving suet out in high heat or direct sun.
- Consider making your own suet to use up within a week.
Signs Suet Has Gone Bad
How can you tell when those suet balls have gone past their prime? Here are a few signs it’s time to toss out old suet cakes:
- Appearance – Suet turns from white to yellow or brown. Mold may appear.
- Texture – Soft, mushy spots develop or fat seems separated from other ingredients.
- Smell – Rancid suet gives off a distinctive, unpleasant sour or off smell.
- Activity – Birds stop eating the suet or you notice fewer visitors.
Trust your senses – if suet shows any signs of aging, it’s best to replace it with a fresh cake or ball. Old suet not only loses its appeal to birds but can also make them sick if eaten.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does suet go bad?
Yes, suet absolutely can go bad. Like any animal-derived fat, suet is perishable and has a relatively short shelf life. The high fat content causes suet to turn rancid if left out too long, especially in warm conditions. Any suet balls that smell rotten or show signs of mold should be discarded.
Can suet be stored at room temperature?
Suet can be kept at room temperature for a short time, but it will last longer if refrigerated or frozen. Unopened suet bags are fine stored in a pantry or basement for up to 2 years as long as it’s cool. But once opened, suet cakes are best kept refrigerated between bird feedings. Room temperature storage once opened shortens shelf life to just 1-2 weeks.
How long does homemade suet last?
Homemade suet typically lasts only 1-2 weeks when stored in the refrigerator. Since it’s not treated with preservatives like commercially bought suet, homemade suet made from scratch has a shorter shelf life. For maximum freshness and use, homemade suet is best made in small batches to use up within 7-10 days.
Can old suet make birds sick?
Yes, feeding birds spoiled, rancid suet can make them ill. Consuming bad suet introduces harmful bacteria into a bird’s system that can cause dangerous intestinal infections. Birds showing signs of sickness like lethargy, fluffed feathers, or diarrhea may have eaten contaminated suet. Discard any suet showing signs of spoilage immediately.
How do you revitalize old suet cakes?
There’s no reliable way to revitalize suet cakes that have already begun to spoil. Once signs of aging like smell, color changes, or texture appear, it’s best to simply replace the suet. Freezing old suet may help extend shelf life temporarily but won’t restore freshness or reverse rancidity.
Conclusion
When properly stored, suet bird feed can last for an impressive 2 years before going bad – if unopened! But once those suet cakes are exposed to air, the countdown begins. Expect opened suet balls to stay fresh for around 1-3 weeks depending on the season. Keeping your suet refrigerated or frozen between feedings can help prolong its lifespan. But be sure to rely on your senses – if you notice any unpleasant smells or appearance, it’s time to toss it in the trash. With proper storage and monitoring for signs of spoilage, you can enjoy many months of suet feeding without waste.
